crazydaddio Loc: Toronto Ontario Canada

I have not done this but have seen other awesome, well-loved contributors do it and I always felt it was constructive and interesting and the OP seemed genuinely appreciative.
Perhaps they PM'd first and then posted in the thread.

In general, I think the moderators who set the rules were doing their best to describe what good manners look like. In the end, the letter of the law cannot replace common decency which it seems like most people have a good instinct for. Motive matters and you usually get a sense for it....

Here are my rules for me on this topic that range within the moderators guidelines
1) 1st instinct dont post a pic. Err on that side
2) if they ask for critique...try to "oreo cookie it" (say something nice, give the critique, say something encouraging)
3) if in doubt about your own motives - dont post your pic, regardless of whether it is instructive or illustrative. I dont trust me all the time....could I be posting a better picture under the guise of illustration? Hmmm...
If I do choose to, as I truly believe it would help...be humble

Some poster complained that we in the community say really nice things about photos that are really bad...again, error on the side of encouragement ... and who gets to judge?
When Ansel Adams shows up, he can critique whatever he wants...the rest of us need to be careful...

..where is Erma Bombeck when you need her...

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

I am comforted to see that someone else devotes as much time as I do to motives (my own and others') and consequences.

Now, shall we talk about the differences among trolls, bullies and meanies? I've thought a lot about that too

dooragdragon Loc: Alma , Arkansas

When in doubt, don't do it is a simple but effective rule of thumb

artBob Loc: Near Chicago

Having conducted thousands of critiques, I was amazed at the rule you cannot SHOW what you mean when critiquing a work. I know words are way too vague ("I would desaturate a bit," "perhaps bring up the contrast," etc.), and a respectful example is much more helpful.

Yet, some in Admin are vehemently against that. I have proposed a Section, "Show Me What You Mean," but was asked, "Would anybody be interested in that?"

Not sure where that will go. Perhaps you would be better off focusing on the section "For Your Consideration," and asking for permission to show your edits (as I am going to do), or, when you post, say "Feel free......", also as I do. If the "Show Me section is allowed, I will announce it in this section.